Under the Influence: Microsoft paying for positivity on YT

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Ars Technica reports that Microsoft and Machinima have been running an influencer program for the Xbox One, paying additional revenue for positive/neutral mentions of the Xbox One. The problems arise when the channels taking part are told specifically not to disclose this fact - arstechnica.com/gaming/2014/01/stealth-marketing-microsoft-paying-youtubers-for-xbox-one-mentions/

TotalBiscuit discusses the wider implications of this and shares past experiences with MCN "brand deals" XB1M13

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Ah yeah, I saw this before you posted this on Skype. I also read articles talking about it. I think this shouldn't surprise people; many companies will do this. However, the fact that Microsoft is doing it so blatantly strikes a nerve with people. That and many people even doing it to begin with also strikes a nerve.

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Trying to hide it and dupe people is the worst idea. I agree with TB that this aspect of it is the worst one.